Having reviewed details of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown, the KMF team has concluded that the original dates of 21-23 May are too close to the earliest first date for the resumption of major events. By moving the festival to September this year, it will be possible to host the event in its entirety in 2021, and in the style that visitors have come to expect.

Founded in 2007, Keswick Mountain Festival (KMF) is one of the UK’s best-loved outdoor festivals, attracting thousands of visitors to Cumbria for its unique mix of live entertainment, sporting events, outdoor adventures, high profile speakers, taster activities, exhibitor stands and camping for all of the family. The 2021 festival will be based in the open air Festival Village on Crow Park, with the scenic backdrop of Derwentwater and the Lakeland fells. The programme for this year’s festival remains unchanged, but the line-up of live music will be different from what was originally planned. Details of the new acts will be unveiled in the near future.

Shared accommodation hospitality in England will not resume until at least 17 May. It is anticipated that Keswick will remain very busy for some months once accommodation reopens and availability may still be low in September. As a result, organisers will increase the capacity of the festival’s dedicated campsite, for this year only.

Paul McGreal, co-owner and director of Keswick Mountain Festival, comments: “When the UK Government revealed its planned roadmap out of lockdown, we found ourselves in a hugely difficult position. The earliest possible date for events of our type is 17 May and it would be irresponsible to press ahead with preparations to hold a full-scale festival starting only four days later. At the same time, it would not be fair to our visitors, or indeed viable, to host a watered-down event for a much smaller audience. It’s taken a massive effort from our team, supported by sponsors, exhibitors and local stakeholders, but I am delighted that we have been able to move everything to September. We hope that everyone who has already booked a place at Keswick Mountain Festival will join us then for what is sure to be a much-anticipated and needed celebration in a stunning, safe, outdoor setting.”

All bookings from the 2020 Keswick Mountain Festival have already been rolled forward to May 2021, and these will automatically be rolled over again to the new September dates. Similarly, all new bookings made for May 2021 will be rolled over to the new September dates. Therefore, anyone who has already made a booking will not need to do anything. Ticket holders who cannot attend on the new dates should email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by 31 March 2021, to be issued with a full refund (less booking fee). From 1 April, standard terms and conditions will apply to refunds*. All ticket holders have been sent an email outlining these details.

For all of the latest developments about Keswick Mountain Festival, visit www.keswickmountainfestival.co.uk, find the event on Facebook, or follow @keswickfestival on Twitter and Instagram.